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Muffled Thumping Sound in Ear

Question:

What would cause a muffled thumping sound in my left ear (almost like hearing a heart
beat)? This sound is not in the right ear, only the left. It doesn't happen all the
time and there is no hearing loss.

Answer:

A couple of possible answers come to mind. First, there is a large source of blood
flow in your head close to the bottom of your ear canal. The carotid artery is
large and can sometimes produce a pounding or heartbeat sound in your ears, particularly
after exercise or exerting yourself. It is common to have tinnitus (or noises
in the ear) on one side instead of both ears. Tinnitus can be a ringing, whistle,
roaring or even a pulsing sound. The pulsing sounds more like what you are experiencing.

I would want you to see your primary physician to rule out high blood
pressure or other medical conditions as a cause, particularly if you feel your
hearing is normal. You may be directed to an audiologist for a hearing test by your
primary doctor as part of the work-up. If so, you may be asked questions about how
often and for how long your tinnitus occurs. Be sure to document when it happens and
if there is anything you are doing at the time, such as exercising.

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